Deciding on a menu or timing food preparation just right adds to the stress of party planning. Hosting a large crowd can raise your anxiety level even more. Appetizers don't have to be part of the stress, as a host of easy and delicious options are readily available for any party planner.
Stuffed Tomatoes
Stuffed baby tomatoes filled with tuna or crab salad serve as a simple but tasty appetizer for any large crowd. To save time, consider buying the salad pre-made from your local deli. Cut the tomatoes in half and scoop out the innards before popping some salad in the tomato.
Mango Salsa
Homemade salsa is an easy-to-make appetizer for a large crowd if you own a food processor. Steer clear of anything too hot, as all of your guests may not enjoy spicy food. Serving a mixture of red onions, peppers, lime juice, mild chilies and mango is a safe bet for most dinner parties.
Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas can be made out of slices of a fresh French baguette or pre-cut toasted baguette slices that are commonly found in supermarkets or Italian delis. Add whatever type of topping you'd like (chopped tomatoes, a thin slice of Mozzarella and a dash of garlic salt make a nice mixture) before serving this Italian staple to your guests.
Southwest Wraps
Mini-wrap slices can add a southwest touch to any party. When cooking for a large crowd, use the biggest wraps available. Stuff the wraps with a mixture of southwest ingredients, such as chopped avocado, corn, black beans, finely-chopped lettuce and ranch dressing. Cutting the wraps into multiple small slices will help feed a large crowd with ease.
Spinach Puffs
Purchase frozen spinach to make spinach puffs. A mixture of eggs, garlic salt, Parmesan cheese and butter will help the spinach stick together as it's rolled into a ball. Bake the spinach puffs on a sheet until golden.
Meatballs
Meatballs as an appetizer sound more difficult to make than they are. Use your favorite meatloaf recipe or try a combination of rolled hamburger meat, ketchup, eggs, crackers and onions before baking them on a cookie sheet. For a healthier alternative, use ground turkey. To top it off, try a Worcestershire-based sauce featuring ketchup and brown sugar.
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